18 Mind-Blowing Facts You Didn't Know About Nelson Mandela
13. South Africans Often Refer To Mandela By His Tribal Name "Madiba"... Or As "Mkhulu" ("Grandfather")
Although Mandela's new "white" given name was Nelson, later on in life he became known by his clan name of Madiba by the majority of his nation. Madiba was a chief who ruled in his tribal area during the 18th Century, and the use of this clan name was the highest sign of respect and affection that could be imposed upon someone - which is why Mandela came to be known by it. Interestingly, Mandela was also referred to as "Mkhulu" by a large portion of the South African population. "Mkhulu" literally means "grandfather" and is another respectful title given to an elderly person who is held in high regard.
NUFC editor for WhatCulture.com/NUFC. History graduate (University of Edinburgh) and NCTJ-trained journalist. I love sports, hopelessly following Newcastle United and Newcastle Falcons. My pastimes include watching and attending sports matches religiously, reading spy books and sampling ales.
